It was a cool Thursday morning when school buses rolled into the Kituro School compound, carrying eager pupils ready to compete in various sporting activities as Athletics Kenya hosted the World Kids Athletics national celebrations in Baringo County.
Kenya, in partnership with World Athletics, continues to embrace the global vision of inspiring healthier, happier and more active children through athletics and physical activities.
As the sunrise lit up the hilly and fertile landscape, groups of talented children aged below 12 years from different parts of the county gathered to showcase their skills as Kenya seeks to defend the world title it won last year.
The event marked the celebration of the World Athletics Kids programme, where learners participated in a series of fun-filled and engaging activities aimed at nurturing talent from an early age while promoting teamwork, discipline and active living.
Accompanied by their teachers, the pupils learned different skills from one another, while beginners simply enjoyed the opportunity to stay active. For many, the activities became about much more than fitness.
Leaving behind the routine classroom environment, many children found a simple but powerful alternative — a chance to exercise, make friends and celebrate together.
Nelson Sifuna, Head of the Directorate of Field Coordination and Co-curricular Activities in the Ministry of Education, said the event showcased immense talent and expressed confidence that Kenya will successfully defend the world title.
“Last year, we won and we don’t want to let it go. Looking at what is happening, we are going to defend the title. This year, as we celebrate, we have to implement the vision of President William Ruto on education, skills and the future. The President is focusing on harnessing the skills and talents of our children while they are still young so that they can be nurtured as they grow,” said Sifuna.
He added that children should learn how to win and lose with dignity.
“You are witnessing these games among children where some celebrate victory while others refuse to give up. That should be the spirit in our children. We are celebrating to ensure we win and assure the country that we are going to spread this programme to all the 47 counties,” he added.
Sifuna noted that the event had revealed talents that should be identified and nurtured across Kenyan schools.
“These athletics and games will keep our children engaged, making the learning environment conducive, appealing and enjoyable for all learners,” he concluded.
Apart from the sporting activities, the children also underwent anti-doping education sessions aimed at instilling the values of integrity, fairness and the importance of clean sport among the younger generation.